Al Golden could be bringing Miami a top 10 recruiting class

January 10, 2012|By Steve Gorten and Chris Hays, Staff writers

Miami Hurricanes football coach Al Golden got off to a fast start in recruiting last year, and rumors are he has really hit his stride after his first season. It's rumored that the Hurricanes will have a top 10 class when signing day rolls around on Feb. 1, and they already seem to have a full class, although they'll be looking to upgrade in coming weeks. Here's taking a look at where Miami's recruiting stands as signing day approaches:

What they need

Coach Al Golden has said this recruiting class is critical in filling needs at quarterback, defensive back and receiver. Depth at linebacker and defensive line are also concerns. UM currently has just two scholarship QBs (Stephen Morris and Ryan Williams) and four WRs (Allen Hurns, Phillip Dorsett, Rashawn Scott and Kendal Thompkins) on its roster. After losing its top three cornerbacks following the 2010 season, UM has lost two of its top four from this past season and needs big playmakers. The departures of Marcus Forston, Micanor Regis, Olivier Vernon and Adewale Ojomo require the 'Canes to restock up front defensively.

Who they've already got

UM's prized oral commitment is Miami Norland Randy "Duke" Johnson. The nation's No. 2 rated RB, he'll help to replace Lamar Miller, off early to the NFL. The commitment received this past weekend from Miami Columbus safety Deon Bush, whose other finalists were Alabama and Auburn, was a huge pickup. He very well could become a CB at UM. Miramar WR Malcolm Lewis is expected to play immediately as a freshman. The same goes for Palm Beach Central's Angelo Jean-Louis, rated the nation's eighth-best athlete. St. Thomas Aquinas' Jelani Hamilton and Tampa Jefferson's Tyriq McCord give the 'Canes two premiere defensive ends one year after signing Anthony Chickillo.

Top five players still considering UM

•Leonard Williams, DE, Daytona Beach Mainland (6-5, 254) – Does not list UM as finalist, but will visit Coral Gables on Jan. 27, and before that will be at Southern Cal Jan. 20.